What Can Dental Fillings Do For You?
A tooth or dental filling is a common early treatment for tooth decay. It may cause temporary tooth sensitivity, but fillings typically last many years before needing to be replaced.
At Happy Dentistry, we check the condition of your fillings on a regular basis during our routine dental check ups and cleans.
Types of Dental Fillings
There are different materials used for dental fillings. Many factors can influence which material will be used on your tooth. Our dentists will choose the right one based on your condition.
Composite Fillings
These are a popular solution made of resin. Composite resin is soft and malleable, so it can be shaped to fit the cavity comfortably. We typically use blue light on the composite to cure it or make it harder. The end result is an extremely durable filling designed to blend in with your natural teeth colour.
Porcelain
Perfect when creating onlays and inlays, porcelain works well with teeth restorations where a large amount of the natural tooth structure has been removed. Onlays and inlays preserve more natural tooth structure than a dental crown, plus they can reinforce a weakened tooth.
Gold Fillings
These are a long-lasting and durable alternative, but they are not used as frequently as silver amalgam because gold is more expensive and does not match the colour of natural teeth.
Amalgam Fillings
Made from a mix of metal alloys, amalgam used to be the industry standard but have since fallen out of favour because they contain trace levels of mercury. Amalgam is also a dark colour that stands out against the surrounding teeth.
Dental Fillings FAQ
What is a dental filling?
A dental filling repairs a tooth damaged by decay, cracks, or wear. It involves removing the decayed portion and filling the area with a durable material like composite resin to restore your tooth’s shape and function.
How do I know if I need a dental filling?
Signs you may need a filling include toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold, visible holes, dark spots, or sharp pain when biting. Our dentists can assess and confirm during your check-up.
Do teeth rot under fillings?
Yes, teeth can still decay under a filling if bacteria enter through gaps or cracks in the filling. This can happen if the filling is old, worn, or if oral hygiene is poor. Regular dental check-ups and X-rays help your dentist detect early decay under fillings and keep your teeth healthy.
How many fillings can I get in one visit?
It depends on the number and size of the cavities and how long you can comfortably sit for treatment. Most patients can safely get two to four fillings in one appointment, but your dentist will tailor the plan to your needs to ensure comfort and safety.
How long does a filling take?
Most fillings can be completed in a single visit, typically within 30–60 minutes, depending on the size and location of the cavity.
Are cavity fillings worth it?
Yes — fillings are one of the best ways to stop tooth decay from spreading and to restore the tooth’s strength and function. Without a filling, a small cavity can grow deeper, leading to pain, infection, or even root canal treatment later.
Are tooth fillings permanent? If not, how long do dental fillings last?
Tooth fillings are long-lasting but not permanent. On average, they last 5 to 15 years, with good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.
What happens if I don’t get a filling?
Untreated decay can progress, leading to pain, infection, and the need for more extensive treatments like root canal therapy or tooth extraction.
How should I care for my filling?
Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and attending regular dental check-ups to ensure your fillings stay in good condition.
Can I eat after my filling?
If you have a white composite filling, you can usually eat after 1–2 hours, once the numbness wears off. For metal or amalgam fillings, avoid chewing hard foods for at least 24 hours to allow the material to fully set. Your dentist will advise you based on the type of filling you received.
Why do I feel sick after a filling?
It’s uncommon, but some patients may feel light-headed or nauseous after a dental filling due to anaesthetic side effects, anxiety, or swallowing debris during treatment. This usually passes quickly. If symptoms persist, contact your dentist for advice.
Need a Consultation with a Chinese-Speaking Dentist in Melbourne?
We are proud to communicate effectively in both English and Mandarin at our dental practice in Melbourne. We offer our services to international students, families, and anyone looking to improve their dental and oral health.
We Are Here to Help
At Happy Dentistry, we take a patient centred approach in all our services. We will always prioritise your comfort, health, and safety. We will work with you as you decide to improve your dental and oral health to attain a beautiful smile.
Happy Dentistry provides high quality, state of the art dentistry solutions. Our dentists in Melbourne are continually updated with the latest tools and techniques in the field of dentistry.
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Located on Swanston Street, our dental practice is in the heart of Melbourne CBD. Visit us at our Melbourne dental clinic during our opening hours!
Get quality dental fillings to help you attain and maintain a beautiful smile. Please book an appointment today, or you can learn more about our Chinese-speaking dentist in Melbourne.